How High Should I Cut Warm Season Grass

Last Updated on February 22, 2026 by D. Ruddy

Figuring out How high should I cut warm season grass can seem tricky at first, especially when you’re just starting out with your lawn. You want that perfect green look, but you’re not sure where to set the mower. Don’t worry!

We’ve got a straightforward, step-by-step way to figure it out. We’ll show you exactly what to do so your grass looks its best, and then we’ll cover what else makes a big difference for a healthy lawn.

Key Takeaways

• You will learn the ideal cutting heights for common warm-season grasses.
• We will explain how mowing height affects grass health and weed control.
• You will discover the best times to mow for optimal results.
• We will provide tips on how to adjust your mowing for different seasons.
• You will understand how to maintain your mower for a clean cut.

Understanding Warm-Season Grasses and Mowing

Warm-season grasses thrive in heat and go dormant in cooler weather. Knowing this is key to cutting them right. Different types of warm-season grasses have different needs when it comes to how tall they should be.

Mowing too short can stress the grass, making it weak and more likely to get diseases or be taken over by weeds. Mowing too high can sometimes lead to other issues, but generally, letting them grow a bit taller is better for their health.

The height you cut your grass at has a big impact on how well it grows and stays healthy. A good mowing height helps the grass blades grow stronger roots. It also shades the soil, which stops weed seeds from sprouting.

This is why learning about How high should I cut warm season grass is so important for a beautiful lawn.

We will explore the specific needs of popular warm-season grasses. We’ll also look at the tools you need and how to use them correctly. The goal is to give you the confidence to keep your lawn looking its best all year round.

Common Types of Warm-Season Grasses

There are several popular types of warm-season grasses that grow well in many parts of the country. Each has slightly different requirements, especially when it comes to mowing height. Knowing which grass you have is the first step to proper care.

• Bermuda Grass: This grass is very tough and grows fast. It likes to be mowed on the shorter side. It’s great for sunny areas and high-traffic spots like sports fields.
• Zoysia Grass: Zoysia forms a dense, beautiful lawn. It can handle heat and drought well. It prefers a slightly higher mowing height than Bermuda.
• St. Augustine Grass: This grass is known for its broad blades and lush appearance. It prefers shade better than other warm-season grasses. It needs to be cut higher than most other types.
• Centipede Grass: Centipede grass is a low-maintenance option. It grows slower and doesn’t need frequent mowing. It also needs a higher cut to stay healthy.
• Fescue Grass (Tall Fescue): While not strictly a warm-season grass in the same way as the others, tall fescue is often grouped with them due to its adaptability in transition zones. It has a wider blade and can tolerate cooler temperatures better than most warm-season grasses.

Understanding the specific characteristics of each grass type helps you make the best choices for its care. This includes knowing the perfect height to cut it.

Why Mowing Height Matters for Grass Health

The height at which you cut your grass is one of the most critical factors for its overall health and appearance. When you cut grass, you are essentially pruning it. Just like pruning a plant too severely can shock it, mowing grass too short can do the same.

When grass is cut too short, the blades lose too much of their surface area. These blades are like the grass’s solar panels; they capture sunlight to make food. Less surface area means less food production, which weakens the grass.

This can lead to slower growth and a thinner lawn.

Furthermore, cutting grass too short exposes the soil surface. This creates an ideal environment for weeds to sprout and grow. Weeds compete with your grass for water, nutrients, and sunlight.

They can quickly take over a lawn that is not mowed at the right height. A healthy, dense turf is your best defense against weeds.

The right mowing height also encourages deeper root growth. Longer grass blades shade the soil, keeping it cooler and moister. This allows the grass roots to grow deeper into the ground.

Deeper roots make the grass more resilient to drought and other stresses. It helps the grass survive hot summer days without turning brown.

The “One-Third Rule” for Mowing

A fundamental principle in lawn care is the “one-third rule.” This rule suggests that you should never remove more than one-third of the grass blade’s height in a single mowing. Following this guideline is crucial for maintaining healthy grass and is a key answer to How high should I cut warm season grass.

Imagine a grass blade that is 3 inches tall. If you apply the one-third rule, you would cut it down to 2 inches, removing only 1 inch of growth. This leaves 2 inches of the blade intact, which is plenty for photosynthesis and energy production.

This gentle approach helps prevent shocking the grass and allows it to recover quickly from the mowing process.

If you were to cut that same 3-inch blade down to 1 inch, you would be removing two-thirds of its length. This is a significant stress on the grass plant. It forces the grass to expend a lot of energy trying to regrow the lost blades, rather than focusing on root development or overall plant health.

This can lead to a weakened lawn susceptible to disease and pests.

To make this rule practical, you need to mow more frequently when the grass is growing quickly. During the peak growing season, warm-season grasses can grow very fast. You might need to mow twice a week to stay within the one-third limit.

In slower growth periods, you can mow less often.

For example, if your target mowing height for Bermuda grass is 1 inch, and it has grown to 1.5 inches, you should mow. You are removing only 0.5 inches, which is less than one-third of the blade. If it grows to 2 inches, and your target is still 1 inch, you would need to mow twice.

First, cut it to 1.5 inches, wait a day or two, and then cut it to the desired 1 inch. This might seem like extra work, but it’s essential for a healthy lawn.

Optimal Cutting Heights for Common Warm-Season Grasses

Knowing the general principles of mowing is important, but understanding the specific cutting heights for your particular grass is essential. The ideal height helps your grass thrive, stay green, and resist common lawn problems. When you learn How high should I cut warm season grass, you are setting yourself up for success.

Each type of warm-season grass has a preferred height range. Mowing within this range provides the best balance for photosynthesis, root growth, and defense against weeds. Going too low can stress the grass, while going too high might not be ideal for its specific growth habits.

Let’s look at the recommended mowing heights for some of the most common warm-season grasses. This information will help you set your mower deck correctly and achieve a beautiful, healthy lawn.

Bermuda Grass Mowing Height

Bermuda grass is known for its fine texture and its ability to be mowed very short. This is one reason it’s popular for golf courses and athletic fields. It recovers quickly and looks great when maintained at a low height.

The ideal mowing height for most Bermuda grass varieties is between 0.5 inches and 1.5 inches. For a truly manicured look, especially on putting greens, it can even be cut as low as 0.125 inches (1/8 inch) using specialized reel mowers. However, for typical home lawns, 0.5 to 1 inch is a very good range.

Mowing Bermuda grass at this low height encourages dense growth. It also helps to keep thatch buildup to a minimum. Thatch is a layer of dead grass stems and roots that can accumulate on the soil surface.

Too much thatch can prevent water and nutrients from reaching the soil.

Example: If you have a home lawn with common Bermuda grass and your mower can be set to 0.75 inches, that’s a great height. If your mower only goes down to 1.5 inches, you can still maintain a healthy lawn, but you might need to mow more frequently to avoid removing too much at once.

It’s important to remember the one-third rule. If your Bermuda grass is growing fast and reaches 1.5 inches, and your target is 1 inch, you can mow it down. However, if it grows to 2 inches, and your target is 1 inch, you should not cut it all at once.

You would need to cut it to 1.5 inches first, then a few days later, cut it to 1 inch.

Zoysia Grass Mowing Height

Zoysia grass forms a dense, uniform turf that is very durable. It grows slower than Bermuda grass but creates a beautiful, carpet-like lawn. Its preferred mowing height is slightly higher than Bermuda.

For most Zoysia grass varieties, the ideal mowing height is between 1 inch and 2 inches. A common recommendation for home lawns is around 1.5 inches. This height allows the grass to maintain good density without becoming overly thick or prone to disease.

Mowing Zoysia grass at the higher end of its range (closer to 2 inches) can help it tolerate shade and drought better. The longer leaves provide more surface area for photosynthesis and help conserve moisture in the soil.

Scenario: You have a Zoysia lawn. You want to keep it looking neat, so you aim for 1.5 inches. If your grass grows to 2 inches, you can mow it back to 1.5 inches.

If it grows to 2.5 inches, you might want to mow it to 2 inches first, then a few days later to 1.5 inches. This prevents stressing the grass.

Zoysia can develop a thatch layer, though not as quickly as some other grasses. Maintaining the correct mowing height and watering practices helps manage thatch naturally.

St. Augustine Grass Mowing Height

St. Augustine grass is prized for its lush appearance and its ability to grow in shaded areas. It has broad, flat leaves and a coarse texture.

Because of its growth habit, it needs to be mowed higher than most other warm-season grasses.

The ideal mowing height for St. Augustine grass is between 2.5 inches and 4 inches. For most home lawns, a height of 3 to 3.5 inches is recommended.

Mowing St. Augustine grass too short can severely damage it, making it susceptible to chinch bugs, brown patch disease, and thinning.

The higher mowing height is crucial for St. Augustine grass because it helps the plant produce enough energy through its broad leaves. It also helps to shade out potential weed seeds that might try to sprout in the soil.

The dense growth at this height also gives it a soft, attractive look.

Example: If your St. Augustine grass is looking a little shaggy and has grown to 4 inches, and your desired height is 3 inches, you can mow it. This follows the one-third rule.

If it grows to 5 inches, you should mow it to 4 inches first, wait a few days, and then mow to your target of 3 inches.

Using a mulching mower is also beneficial for St. Augustine grass. It returns nutrients to the soil as the grass clippings decompose.

Centipede Grass Mowing Height

Centipede grass is known for its low maintenance needs and its attractive, fine-textured appearance. It grows slower than many other warm-season grasses and doesn’t require frequent mowing. It also prefers a higher mowing height.

The recommended mowing height for Centipede grass is typically between 1.5 inches and 2.5 inches. A common target for home lawns is around 2 inches. This height helps Centipede grass maintain its color and density without becoming too prone to disease.

Centipede grass generally does not tolerate very short mowing heights. Cutting it too short can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to pests and stress. The slightly taller height helps it conserve energy and stay healthy, especially during hot, dry periods.

Scenario: Your Centipede grass has grown to 2.5 inches, and your target height is 2 inches. You can safely mow it. If it has grown to 3 inches, you might want to mow it down to 2.5 inches first, let it recover for a few days, and then mow it to 2 inches to avoid removing too much at once.

Because Centipede grass grows slower, you won’t have to mow as often as you might with other types. This makes it a good choice for those who want a nice lawn with less upkeep.

Tall Fescue Mowing Height

Tall Fescue is a cool-season grass, but it’s often grown in areas where summers are hot, especially when blended with other grasses or in transition zones. It has a deep root system and can tolerate a range of conditions. It generally likes to be mowed higher than many other turfgrasses.

The ideal mowing height for Tall Fescue is between 2.5 inches and 4 inches. For most home lawns, a height of 3 to 3.5 inches is recommended. This taller mowing height is beneficial for Tall Fescue for several reasons.

When Tall Fescue is mowed higher, its leaves create more shade for the soil. This helps to keep the soil cooler, which is important for the grass’s roots, especially in warmer climates. It also helps to reduce water loss from the soil surface and can suppress the germination of weed seeds.

Example: If your Tall Fescue lawn has grown to 4 inches, and your target is 3 inches, you can mow it. This is well within the one-third rule. If it has grown to 5 inches, you would mow it to 4 inches first, then a few days later, cut it down to 3 inches.

A taller mowing height also encourages Tall Fescue to develop a deeper root system. This makes the grass more drought-tolerant and resilient to foot traffic. It contributes to a healthier, more robust lawn overall.

How to Adjust Mowing for Seasons and Conditions

The best way to answer How high should I cut warm season grass isn’t a single number; it’s a range that changes with the seasons and how your lawn is doing. Your grass doesn’t grow at the same pace all year. It grows fastest when it’s hot and sunny, and slows down when it’s cooler or drier.

Adjusting your mowing height and frequency based on the season and your grass’s growth rate is crucial. This ensures you’re always taking the right amount of grass off, keeping your lawn healthy and looking its best.

Summer Mowing Practices

Summer is typically the peak growing season for warm-season grasses. The combination of heat and adequate moisture (from rain or irrigation) means your grass will likely be growing rapidly. This is when you need to be most attentive to your mowing height and frequency.

During the hottest parts of summer, it’s often beneficial to raise your mowing height slightly. For example, if your Bermuda grass’s ideal range is 0.5 to 1 inch, you might raise it to 1 inch or even 1.25 inches during periods of extreme heat and drought stress. This helps the grass blades shade the soil better, keeping it cooler and reducing water loss.

For grasses like St. Augustine or Tall Fescue, which already prefer a higher cut, maintaining their higher end of the range (e.g., 3.5 to 4 inches) during summer is generally a good practice. This provides maximum benefit for shade and moisture retention.

Remember the one-third rule. Even though the grass is growing fast, you still shouldn’t remove more than a third of the blade at one time. You’ll likely need to mow more frequently, perhaps every 4-5 days, to keep up with the growth and stay within that limit.

Scenario: It’s July, and your Bermuda grass lawn is growing very quickly. Your normal mowing height is 0.75 inches. The grass blades are now 1.2 inches long.

Instead of mowing all the way down to 0.75 inches immediately, you could mow it to 1 inch first. Then, a couple of days later, mow it down to 0.75 inches.

Avoid mowing during the hottest part of the day, as this can stress the grass. Early morning is the best time to mow.

Fall Mowing Adjustments

As temperatures begin to cool in the fall, the growth rate of warm-season grasses will start to slow down. This means you can gradually reduce your mowing frequency. Your mowing height might also need a slight adjustment.

Some experts recommend slightly lowering the mowing height for warm-season grasses as they prepare to go dormant for the winter. This encourages the grass to “hunker down” and store energy for the spring. For Bermuda grass, you might lower it to the lower end of its range, around 0.5 to 0.75 inches.

For grasses like Zoysia, you might lower it to 1 to 1.5 inches. St. Augustine and Centipede grass, which are already mowed higher, may not need a significant height reduction, but you can certainly lower them to the lower end of their recommended range as well.

The final mowing of the season is particularly important. You want to ensure the grass is not too tall when winter arrives. Tall, dense grass can be more prone to fungal diseases like snow mold, especially in regions with moist winters.

A slightly shorter cut can help prevent this.

Example: Your Bermuda grass is preparing for dormancy. You’ve been mowing at 1 inch. As the growth slows and the weather cools, you can begin mowing at 0.75 inches and then perhaps 0.5 inches for the last couple of mows of the season.

This helps ensure a clean finish before winter.

It’s also a good time to consider core aeration if your lawn needs it. This helps improve air circulation and water penetration, setting the stage for a healthy spring.

Mowing During Drought or Stress

When your warm-season grass is experiencing drought stress or other forms of stress (like extreme heat or disease), it’s best to adjust your mowing habits to help it recover. The primary goal during these times is to reduce stress on the grass.

The most important thing to do during drought or stress is to raise your mowing height. This means cutting the grass higher than your normal setting. For example, if you usually mow Bermuda grass at 0.75 inches, you might raise it to 1.5 inches or even higher.

Why raise the height? Taller grass blades shade the soil more effectively, which helps to keep the soil surface cooler and retain moisture. It also means less of the grass plant is removed during mowing, reducing the energy it needs to expend on regrowth.

This allows the grass to focus its energy on survival and recovery.

Another critical step is to stop mowing altogether if the grass is severely stressed or dormant. Mowing dormant grass can damage it and hinder its ability to green up in the spring. If the grass is just showing signs of stress, but still green, mowing at a higher setting is the best approach.

Scenario: A severe heatwave has hit, and your Zoysia grass is showing signs of wilting and browning. Your normal mowing height is 1.5 inches. You should immediately raise your mower deck to 2 inches or higher.

If possible, avoid mowing until the drought conditions improve and the grass begins to recover.

Watering deeply and infrequently is also crucial during drought. However, avoid watering during the heat of the day, which can lead to evaporation and potential fungal issues. Early morning is the best time for watering.

Maintaining Your Mower for a Clean Cut

The best mowing height in the world won’t help if your mower isn’t cutting the grass properly. A dull blade or an improperly adjusted mower can tear the grass, leading to brown tips and a stressed lawn. This is why mower maintenance is essential to achieve the best results when you ask How high should I cut warm season grass.

A clean cut is vital for the health of your grass. When blades are sharp, they slice through the grass cleanly, allowing the plant to heal quickly. Torn or ragged cuts leave the grass susceptible to diseases and can make your lawn look brown and unhealthy.

Let’s look at the key aspects of mower maintenance that will help you achieve that perfect cut every time.

Sharpening Your Mower Blades

This is arguably the most important maintenance task for your mower. Dull blades tear grass; sharp blades cut it. You should aim to sharpen your mower blades at least once or twice a year, depending on how much you mow and the type of grass you have.

You can sharpen your blades yourself using a metal file or grinding wheel. The key is to maintain the original angle of the blade’s cutting edge. Some people prefer to take their blades to a professional lawn mower repair shop for sharpening, which is also a great option.

When sharpening, make sure to remove any nicks or burrs from the blade. Also, always balance the blade after sharpening. If one side is heavier than the other, it can cause vibrations that aren’t good for your mower or your lawn.

A simple test to see if your blades are dull is to look at the tips of your grass after mowing. If they are white or brown and ragged, your blades are likely dull. Healthy grass will have clean-cut, green tips.

Statistic: According to lawn care experts, using dull mower blades can increase the stress on your turf by up to 70%, making it more vulnerable to disease and pests.

Adjusting Mower Deck Height

Ensuring your mower deck is set to the correct height is fundamental. Most mowers have a lever or knob that allows you to adjust the cutting height. Make sure this mechanism is working correctly and that all four wheels are set to the same height setting.

This ensures an even cut across your lawn.

Before you mow, check your owner’s manual to understand how to properly adjust the deck height on your specific mower model. It’s a good practice to measure the actual cutting height from the ground to the mower blade to confirm it’s set correctly.

Some mowers have different “settings” that are not always accurate. For instance, a setting labeled “3 inches” might actually cut at 3.5 inches. Using a measuring tape or ruler will confirm the actual height your mower is cutting.

Example: You’ve set your mower to what you think is 1.5 inches for your Zoysia grass. You grab a ruler and measure from the ground to the lowest point of the blade and find it’s actually cutting at 2 inches. You then adjust the deck down to achieve your desired 1.5-inch cut.

When making adjustments, start by setting your mower to the higher end of your grass’s recommended range. You can always lower it if needed, but it’s harder to fix a lawn that’s been cut too short.

Cleaning Your Mower

Regular cleaning of your mower is more than just for aesthetics; it’s important for performance. Grass clippings can build up under the mower deck, on the wheels, and in other parts of the machine.

Excess grass clippings under the deck can restrict airflow, which can lead to an uneven cut. It can also cause the engine to work harder and potentially overheat. Cleaning the deck after each use is a good habit.

A clean mower also allows you to better spot any potential issues, like loose parts or signs of wear. This proactive approach can save you from larger repairs down the road.

How to clean: After each mowing session, disconnect the spark plug for safety. Then, use a hose to spray down the underside of the deck. You can also use a putty knife or scraper to remove stubborn, caked-on grass.

Make sure the mower is dry before storing it.

Keeping your mower clean ensures it operates efficiently and helps you achieve that professional-looking finish on your lawn.

Choosing the Right Mower Type

The type of lawn mower you use can also influence how well you can maintain your desired cutting height and the overall health of your lawn. Different mowers are suited for different tasks and lawn types. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision when answering How high should I cut warm season grass.

The two main categories of mowers for residential use are rotary mowers and reel mowers. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice often depends on the type of grass you have and the look you want to achieve.

Rotary Mowers

Rotary mowers are the most common type of lawn mower found in homes. They use a single blade that spins horizontally at high speed. This blade cuts the grass by impact, which can sometimes lead to a less precise cut if the blade is not sharp.

Pros:

• Versatility: Rotary mowers can handle most types of grass and are good for cutting taller grass.
• Affordability: They are generally less expensive than reel mowers.
• Ease of Use: Most rotary mowers are straightforward to operate and maintain.

Cons:

• Tearing Effect: If the blade is not perfectly sharp, it can tear the grass, leading to browning tips.
• Less Precision: They are not ideal for achieving very low, manicured cuts like those seen on golf greens.

For most home lawns with warm-season grasses like St. Augustine, Centipede, or Tall Fescue, a good quality rotary mower with sharp blades will work well. You just need to ensure you are using the correct height settings and the one-third rule.

Reel Mowers

Reel mowers use a set of blades that spin in a cylindrical fashion, much like scissors. This scissor-like action makes a very clean cut through the grass blades. They are the preferred choice for achieving very low, precise cuts.

Pros:

• Clean Cut: They provide the cleanest cut, which is best for grass health.
• Low Height Capability: Ideal for cutting grass very short, making them suitable for Bermuda grass lawns aiming for a manicured look.
• Quieter Operation: Manual reel mowers are very quiet.

Cons:

• Limited Height: Most reel mowers are designed for lower cuts. Higher settings can be limited.
• Maintenance: They often require more frequent adjustment and maintenance to keep the blades aligned.
• Cost: High-quality reel mowers can be more expensive.
• Difficult with Uneven Terrain: Can struggle with bumpy lawns or thick weeds.

If you have Bermuda grass and are aiming for a very low, golf-course-like finish, a reel mower is the way to go. However, for most homeowners with other warm-season grasses who are aiming for a standard healthy lawn, a well-maintained rotary mower is perfectly sufficient.

Comparison Table: Rotary vs. Reel Mowers

Feature	Rotary Mower	Reel Mower
Cutting Action	Impact (spinning blade)	Scissor-like (cylinder and bedknife)
Cut Quality	Good to Very Good (with sharp blades)	Excellent (very clean cut)
Ideal for Low Cuts	Limited	Excellent
Best For	Most home lawns, varied grass types	Fine-bladed grasses, manicured lawns, very low cuts
Cost	Generally Lower	Can be Higher
Maintenance	Blade sharpening, cleaning	Blade sharpening, alignment, cleaning

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the main reason for mowing warm-season grass higher in the summer?

Answer: Mowing warmer season grass higher in the summer helps shade the soil. This keeps the soil cooler, reduces water loss, and can help prevent weed seeds from sprouting.

Question: Can I mow my grass every day?

Answer: No, you generally should not mow your grass every day. Following the one-third rule is important, meaning you shouldn’t remove more than one-third of the grass blade’s height at one time. Mowing too often, especially too short, stresses the grass.

Question: How do I know if my mower blades are dull?

Answer: If the tips of your grass look ragged, torn, or brown after mowing, your mower blades are likely dull. Healthy grass will have clean-cut, green tips.

Question: What happens if I cut my St. Augustine grass too short?

Answer: Cutting St. Augustine grass too short can severely damage it. It can become more prone to pests like chinch bugs and diseases like brown patch, and the lawn can thin out quickly.

Question: Should I leave grass clippings on the lawn?

Answer: Yes, leaving grass clippings on the lawn, often called “grasscycling,” is usually a good practice. The clippings are full of nutrients and act as a natural fertilizer, helping your lawn stay healthy.

Conclusion

Knowing How high should I cut warm season grass comes down to understanding your specific grass type and the season. Aim for the recommended height range for your grass, always follow the one-third rule, and adjust your height for the summer heat or fall dormancy. Keeping your mower blades sharp ensures a clean cut.

With these simple steps, your lawn will look great.